We have had extensive discussions about many European cities…I am traveling to Lisbon on for the first time by myself for 4 days. I am looking for some suggestions for hotels, restaurants, must see sights (tours/day trips), shopping.
I prefer 4+ star hotels centrally located where I could walk to various places. I love seafood and I like to shop.
I like The Ivens Hotel and the Fontecruz but I’m a Marriott Convoy person. Pine Cliffs if you head down to Algarve. Check out Alma, Trindade, Ramiro and Feitoria for a nice meal. Terreiro do Paço, Tram 28, Convento do Carmo, Mosteiro dos Jerónimos, and the Drawbridge for some sightseeing. On your own for shopping but there is plenty!
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It’s been 5 years since we’ve been to Lisbon/Portugal and we loved it…just prepare for lots of walking/stairs. We had rented an Airbnb on the hill across from Saint George’s Castle, within walking distance of the water. I remember taking a taxi to the castle and spending a leisurely walk down. Rick Steve’s book on Portugal was helpful, as well as TripAdvisor.
I would definitely schedule a food tour (you must try pastel de nada, from a recommended place) and maybe check out some fado, if that sounds interesting to you. Sintra is an easy day trip.
Personally I like to schedule a walking food tour early in a stay because it helps you get the lay of the land. You also have an opportunity to ask questions, not only of the tour guide but also fellow tourists.
DS just came back from Portugal with friends and had a wonderful time. We haven’t had the opportunity to discuss the trip in detail, since he had to dive back into work, but they (a group of 5 friends) had no issues…even with an itinerary where they flew home Lisbon to Philly to Lexington to Chicago…on Memorial Day weekend!
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We are hoping to go next year so I’m following along!
We have a day trip planned to Sintra and some of the restaurant recommendations from jpga13 were already on our list so I’m thankful for the confirmation that we’re on the right track.
I hope you post photos and report back @oldfort!
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I have been to Barcelona and other cities in Spain, but have never been to Portugal. This is going to be end of a cruise from Barcelona to Lisbon. I thought I would spend few days there.
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Love Portugal, did a Rick Steves trip there three years ago. Another vote for pastel de nada, our guide says you need to have one every day you’re in Portugal.
No help on the hotels, but there are plenty of very nice ones in Lisbon.